Photovoltaic system with storage: pro and cons

Photovoltaic systems with storage (or with batteries) are becoming increasingly popular, thanks to their ability to store the energy produced during the day and make it available at a later time, such as at night.
But what are the pros and cons of this technology?

This guide offers a clear and comprehensive overview to help you make an informed decision. We will analyze the pros and cons of photovoltaics with storage, the factors that influence their cost-effectiveness, and the different types of batteries available. Get ready to discover if this technology is the key to your energy independence! In this article:

• What is a photovoltaic system with storage and how does it work?
• The advantages of photovoltaics with storage
• Types of storage batteries for a photovoltaic system
• When are photovoltaics with storage worthwhile? Analysis of determining factors
• Photovoltaics with storage: prices
• Why choose photovoltaic systems with storage?
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about photovoltaics with storage

What is a photovoltaic system with storage and how does it work?

The ultimate purpose of photovoltaic systems with storage is to allow energy to be used at a different time from when it is produced. The operation is quite simple: sunlight hits the photovoltaic modules, causing the photovoltaic effect, which results in a direct current. Through the inverter, the direct current (DC) is converted into alternating current (AC). The storage units or batteries, integrated with the photovoltaic system, allow the excess electricity to be stored – which, in the absence of such storage, would be fed into the national grid – making it available when there is an energy demand.

If you want to understand in detail how the system works and get an overview of the different types of batteries available, we invite you to read our article dedicated to the operation of photovoltaics with storage. Here, instead, we will focus on the advantages and the factors to consider when evaluating if this technology is right for your needs.

The advantages of photovoltaics with storage

Installing a photovoltaic system with storage offers numerous advantages:

• Maximizing self-consumption: The self-consumption of solar energy is a crucial goal for those who invest in a photovoltaic system. Thanks to energy storage, it is possible to maximize this practice, ensuring optimal use of the electricity produced. When the photovoltaic system generates energy during the day, part of it is used immediately to meet the energy needs of the home or business, in the case of industrial plants. However, in many cases, production exceeds consumption, or sometimes the two do not coincide. It is in cases like these that, faced with known consumption needs in the evening, it is possible to store the surplus energy in the batteries for later use, rather than feeding it into the national grid.
• A practical example: Imagine a family that has installed a photovoltaic system with storage in their home. On sunny days, the system generates more energy than the family consumes directly. In cases like these, the excess energy can be sold to the national grid, monetizing its transfer. Alternatively, to meet an evening consumption need, it can be stored in the batteries. In the evening, when the family’s energy demand increases but solar production is reduced or absent, the family can continue to use the renewable energy stored in the batteries instead of drawing it from the grid. This allows them to maximize their self-consumption of solar energy and significantly reduce their dependence on the electrical grid.

• Energy independence: thanks to the storage system, you can become more independent from the electrical grid and protect yourself from rising energy prices.
  Becoming a prosumer, that is, both a producer and a consumer of your own energy, also means enjoying a stable supply over time. It means locking in the cost of your energy for the entire life cycle of the system itself.
• Economic savings: photovoltaics with storage allow for a significant reduction in utility bills in the long term, thanks to increased self-consumption and reduced energy withdrawal from the grid.

Types of storage batteries for a photovoltaic system

Storage batteries allow you to store the solar energy produced, making it available even in the absence of sunlight. There are several types, each with specific characteristics.

Types of Batteries

• Lithium-ion batteries: These batteries are lightweight, have a high energy density, and a long lifespan.
• Lead-acid batteries: Used for energy storage, especially in large-scale applications.
• Flow batteries: Valued for their long lifespan and ability to store large amounts of energy.
• Solid-state batteries: Currently, a promising option for the future.
• Hydrogen batteries: Electrical energy is used to electrolyze water, generating hydrogen, which can then be used for energy production when needed.

Installation Configurations

• Unidirectional on the generation side → Energy is stored before the meter.
• Bidirectional on the generation side → Allows energy to be drawn from the electrical grid as well.
• Bidirectional post-generation → The batteries store energy that has already been converted to alternating current.

The choice of battery and configuration depends on consumption needs and the optimization of energy self-consumption.

When are photovoltaics with storage worthwhile?

The cost-effectiveness of photovoltaics with storage depends on a series of factors, all of which are analyzed with extreme care in the preliminary phase by industry operators.

• Consumption profile: This is an indispensable preliminary analysis for correctly sizing the system, taking into account not only the available surface area but also current and future real consumption needs.
• Time Bands F1, F2, F3: The distribution of consumption in specific time bands is an essential indicator for defining the real advantage and benefit offered by the storage system, both in terms of the battery’s charging potential in line with self-consumption needs, and in terms of the delayed use of stored green energy. To estimate the economic benefits you can obtain, visit our article dedicated to verifying your self-consumption potential
• Electric vehicle charging: Electric mobility is certainly a factor to consider in the system’s design phase. It is estimated that vehicles are predominantly used during the day, with massive charging cycles at night. In this sense, the presence of an adequately sized storage system generates undeniable benefits.
• Type of residence: The payback time is certainly a factor to be weighed also according to the type of residence, in the case of domestic installations. Occasional residences, such as summer homes, will certainly have longer investment amortization times.
• Sustainability: The presence of storage systems allows for an incremental optimization of the use of green energy, reducing the environmental impact associated with fossil fuels.

Photovoltaics with storage: prices

The installation of a photovoltaic system with storage has a higher cost than a system without a battery, but it offers significant advantages in terms of energy savings and independence from the electrical grid.

Battery costs are in constant decline thanks to technological advancements, making these systems increasingly accessible. Therefore, despite the initial investment, and following an adequate preliminary analysis, a photovoltaic system with storage guarantees energy savings and sustainability in the long run.

Why choose photovoltaic systems with storage?

The economic savings obtained thanks to the generation of solar energy is certainly a fundamental driver. The extent of this driver is related to several technical variables, including a thorough preliminary analysis of the structure’s energy needs and a consequent appropriate sizing of the system (based on the available surface area).

Relying on qualified operators for design and installation means generating multiple benefits, including:

• Maximizing self-consumption – Energy produced during the day can be stored for evening and nighttime use.
• Less dependence on the grid – Reduction of energy costs and greater system efficiency.
• Perfect for those who consume at night – Ideal for families and businesses with higher consumption in the evening hours.
• Reduced environmental impact – Lower CO₂ emissions and use of renewable energy.

If you are looking for a company experienced in the installation and also in the management and maintenance of quality photovoltaic systems, trust Southenergy, a company from Puglia that has been in the renewable energy sector for 17 years.

The areas of activity in which Southenergy operates range from the design and construction of turnkey photovoltaic systems, to the enhancement of pre-existing systems through repowering and revamping activities aimed at improving the installed capacity, preserving the projects 360° also through crucial activities such as O&M (operation and maintenance), due diligence, asset management, monitoring, and digital energy.

Discover the network of Southenergy services, the efficiency of our photovoltaic systems, and the turnkey solutions we have reserved for those who have already chosen us: visit the section of our site dedicated to some of the projects we have completed.

Or contact us by filling out the form below or using our direct channels (tel. +39 0831 33 15 94; mail: info@southenergy.it). We will find the best solution specific to your facility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How much does a photovoltaic system with storage cost? The cost of a photovoltaic system with storage depends on several factors, including the power of the system, the capacity of the storage system, and the type of components used. Request a personalized quote from Southenergy for a precise estimate.

What is the ideal storage capacity for my photovoltaic system? The ideal storage capacity is strongly linked to the energy consumption profile and the capacity of the photovoltaic system itself. Our experts can help you correctly size your storage system to maximize self-consumption and savings on your bill.

How long do the batteries of a photovoltaic system with storage last? The lifespan of the batteries depends on the type, quality, and conditions of use. In general, lithium batteries have a longer lifespan (8-10 years) compared to lead-acid batteries (5-7 years).

Is it possible to add a storage system to an existing photovoltaic system? In many cases, it is possible to add a storage system to an existing photovoltaic system. However, it is important to verify the compatibility of the components and rely on a qualified installer.

What incentives are available for photovoltaics with storage? Incentives and tax deductions for photovoltaics with storage vary depending on regional and national regulations. Contact us to find out what benefits are available in your area.